Auckland Hospitality Scene Stands Strong: Lewisham Awards Demonstrate Resilience Of Auckland's Hospitality Scene
1 June 2025
Best new establishment: First Mates Last Laugh.
Double win for Panacea.
Karangahape Road establishments' take out three categories.
Nicola Richards of Monsoon Poon honored.
Resilience and innovations was on show as Auckland Hospitality's best came together on Sunday night for the annual Lewisham Awards. Finalists, judges and guests packed out the Viaduct Events Centre for an evening of recognition and celebration with a time travellers theme.
The makers of the city's best cocktail, cafe lattes and mince pies, assembled to acknowledge the achievements of the past year.
'Hospitality has continued to be challenging,' observers Dan Sullivan, Chairperson of the Awards Committee. 'That hasn't stopped innovation, dedication and ultimately success in this creative commercial industry'.
Karangahape Road establishments featured heavily with a double win for Apero for best Chef and Wine, best central establishment for pasta restaurant Pici, as well as the emerging talent award for the cult following of Pie Rolla.
Further off the beaten track were wins from Westhaven Marina located First Mates, Last Laughs for best new establishment, founded by Judith Tabron of Soul Bar fame, as well as Avondale based Tokos Tacos for best West Auckland establishment.
Nicola Richards, owner of Monsoon Poon was honoured with the Hospitality Hero award, the popular Southeast Asian restaurant closed it's doors after almost 20 years of trading in early May.
'As an industry we're seeing hospitality owners demonstrate an understanding and application of community and connection. Not only are they creating memorable experiences, they're delivering them in such a way that guests want to come back to share it with others.' says Sullivan.
LEWISHAM AWARD WINNERS 2025
Best Bartender – Theo Thjandra @ Truth or Dare/Goblin
Best Beer Brewer – Hallertau
Best Cafe – Duo
Best Chef – Leslie @ Apero
Best Cocktail Experience – Panacea
Best Central Auckland Establishment – Pici
Front of House – Sophie Ehan @ Gilt
Hospo Hero – Nicola Richards @ Monsoon Poon
Best Innovation – Everybody Eats
East/Waiheke – Casita Miro
Best North – Fantail & Turtle
Best South – Mania Seafood Boil
Best West – Tokos Tacos
Best New Establishment – First Mates, Last Laughs
Best Producer – Kumeu River Wines
Best Sales Experience – Gina Nicholls @ Tickety Boo
Best Sustainability – Panacea
Best Wine – Apero
Content Sourced from scoop.co.nz
Original url
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Techday NZ
5 days ago
- Techday NZ
Jet Technologies expands across Southeast Asia amid tech demand
Jet Technologies is expanding its operations across Southeast Asia, responding to an increasing demand from printers in the region for digital embellishment, automation, and advanced finishing solutions. The company, with over ten years of experience in Indonesia and an expanding footprint in Vietnam, has positioned itself to cater to printers adapting to rapid industry transformation. Many of these businesses are shifting away from traditional, labour-intensive processes towards technology-driven methods with the aim of streamlining operations and enhancing creative output while keeping costs in check. "Printers in this region are hungry for innovation and eager to adopt technology that allows them to work smarter, not harder," said Jack Malki, Director at Jet Technologies. "We're seeing growing interest in solutions that offer both productivity gains and creative flexibility, particularly in areas like digital embellishment and automated finishing." Technology uptake One of the central trends in the market is the rising popularity of digital embellishment technology. Jet Technologies has gained attention for its Versatex Print Bar, a solution designed to replace traditional screen printing. This technology allows printers to incorporate high-impact design elements into their products, helping them differentiate in a competitive market. Automation is also a significant focus for Southeast Asian printers. Many are exploring systems that reduce the need for manual intervention, aiming to boost throughput and maintain consistency in production. The company's new Jet iQ finishing range, covering equipment from slitting and rewinding to digital finishing lines and shrink sleeving machines, has been met with strong demand throughout the region. JetiQ is designed to offer modular and scalable options to enhance productivity, with several installations scheduled in Southeast Asia. Market pressures Printers across the region are striving to achieve a point of difference through either distinctive visual design or improved operational efficiency. Speed, quality and cost-effectiveness remain the primary drivers for investment in new technology. However, sustainability is starting to feature in discussions, especially for those who service multinational brand owners. Emerging technologies that achieve both environmental and economic advantages, such as LED-UV curing and material down-gauging, are gradually being adopted. "The pace of change in Southeast Asia has really accelerated over the last few years," added Malki. "We're inspired by the ambition of our clients in the region, and we're committed to investing in the tools, training and local support they need to succeed." Jet Technologies is prioritising local support infrastructure as it builds closer relationships with printers throughout Southeast Asia. The company's demonstration centres in Indonesia and Australia, where new equipment is continually introduced, provide clients with hands-on experience of new technology. These centres are intended to assist printers in assessing potential solutions for their businesses, thereby supporting the ongoing transition to updated industry practices in the region. The company points to a deep understanding of the Southeast Asian market and ongoing investments in product development and support as key factors in its continued regional presence. Jet Technologies remains focused on delivering the technology and expertise that printers require as market expectations evolve. Follow us on: Share on:
NZ Herald
15-07-2025
- NZ Herald
Air NZ, Qantas lag some rival airlines for on-time arrivals, Honolulu is best Oceania airport, Solomon Airlines pushes Auckland-Vanuatu route
Qantas and Air New Zealand were closely matched in a new punctuality report but behind some Southeast Asian operators. Photo / Supplied Reminder, this is a Premium article and requires a subscription to read. Listening to articles is free for open-access content—explore other articles or learn more about text-to-speech. Access to Herald Premium articles require a Premium subscription. Subscribe now to listen. 15 Jul, 2025 04:00 AM 3 mins to read Air NZ, Qantas lag some rival airlines for on-time arrivals, Honolulu is best Oceania airport, Solomon Airlines pushes Auckland-Vanuatu route Qantas and Air New Zealand were closely matched in a new punctuality report but behind some Southeast Asian operators. Photo / Supplied June ended in a disastrous data breach for Qantas but the Australian airline just pipped Air New Zealand in punctuality for the month, according to new data. Aviation analytics company Cirium's June on-time performance report, based on 252,797 flights, rated Saudia and Aeromexico best in the world. The Saudi Arabian flag carrier arrived on time 91.33% of the time and the Mexican airline had 87.85% on-time arrivals. In Asia-Pacific rankings, Thai AirAsia was first with 87.71% on-time arrival. Qantas, Singapore Airlines and Air New Zealand were ranked eighth, ninth and 10th, respectively.
Scoop
06-07-2025
- Scoop
Petdirect Named On 2025 Best Places To Work™ Awards Shortlist
Press Release: Petdirect Petdirect, New Zealand's number one Kiwi-owned pet supply retailer, has been named on the 2025 Best Places to Work™ Awards shortlist, recognising its standout culture, strong leadership and people-first approach. Launched in March 2020, Petdirect has grown rapidly to become a category leader in the pet speciality space. In just five years, the business has scaled to over 100 employees, operates distribution centres in Auckland and Christchurch, and now has a growing physical retail presence. Its first store opened in Takapuna in late 2024, with two new locations in Mt Roskill, Auckland and Tower Junction, Christchurch set to open in the coming months. More stores are planned as part of Petdirect's national expansion. What Makes Petdirect a Best Place to Work People-First Culture: 88 percent of team members say they feel connected to and supported by their immediate colleagues, and over 93 percent feel supported by their manager. Employees consistently highlight a sense of trust, collaboration, and genuine care across all levels of the business. Clear Purpose and Shared Values: A remarkable 93 percent of team members say they understand how their work connects to Petdirect's broader mission — to make life better for pets and the people who love them. More than 86 percent say they see the company's values being lived every day. Growth and Innovation: 84 percent of the team feel encouraged to explore better ways of doing things, and employees speak positively about the abundance of opportunities to grow, contribute ideas, and make a meaningful impact. Wellbeing and Flexibility: From autonomy in daily work, to fully stocked kitchen pantries and wellness allowances, Petdirect puts real action behind its belief in supporting the whole person, not just the job title. A Culture of Recognition: Over 77 percent of employees say they are regularly recognised for their contributions. With initiatives ranging from shout-outs to performance rewards and team celebrations, recognition is part of the company's everyday rhythm. "We are proud of the culture we are building," says Dave Anderson, CEO of Petdirect. "Being shortlisted is a moment of real pride and a reflection of the talented, passionate team behind everything we do." "We've worked hard to create a workplace where people feel supported, valued and excited to grow," adds Brooke Riley, Head of People and Culture. "Our people are the heart of Petdirect, and this recognition proves we're on the right track." The Petdirect Difference Whether it's free snacks and pet-friendly offices, or approachable leadership and a strong focus on mental wellbeing, Petdirect stands out for putting employee experience at the centre of its strategy. One survey respondent shared: 'The culture is unmatched - it's like one big family. We support and celebrate each other, and our leaders genuinely care.' With continued investment in leadership development, digital skills, and team connection across its growing store and distribution network, Petdirect is proving that a high-growth business can still be a great place to work. A Customer-Led, Innovative Future Petdirect's purpose is simple: to make life better for pets and the people who love them. From personalised advice to a wide range of trusted products, everything the business does is designed to support healthier, happier pet lives. Petdirect also supports several national and community-based charities, including the SPCA, Saving Hope Foundation and Save the Kiwi, with regular product donations and awareness initiatives. Customers can access expert guidance every step of the way, from nutrition to supplements and beyond. Petdirect offers more than 100 expert-authored blogs, personalised recommendations based on pet profiles, and complimentary 15-minute bookings with its in-house Pet Expert Team to help customers make confident, informed choices. These services sit alongside a growing range of digital tools, including a mobile app, flexible Autodeliver subscription options and Airpoints rewards. Winners of the Best Places to Work Awards will be announced later this year.
